Jumbo Supermarkets plans to end its alliance with international purchasing groups Everest and Epic Partners for the procurement of A-brand products.
The Dutch chain announced that it aims to cease the partnership by year-end, stating it “no longer aligns with Jumbo’s strategic direction.”
Furthermore, Jumbo reiterated its intention to maintain purchasing agreements with Germany’s Edeka for joint sourcing of private-label ranges and Everest Fresh for sourcing potatoes, vegetables, and fruits.
Notably, the retailer joined the buying consortiums in 2023 alongside Ahold Delhaize, which enabled it to achieve a “more equal purchasing footing with international A-brand suppliers.”
Tom Heidman, acting CEO at Jumbo, commented: “The partnership has contributed to an affordable, wide, and relevant product range for our customers.”
Moreover, he added, “It has also provided us the space to invest further in our product range and its sustainability, giving us greater insight into the international purchasing landscape.”
However, Heidman also stated, “While the partnership has undoubtedly brought us value, we view its termination as a positive development.”
He elaborated, “The partnership no longer aligns with Jumbo’s strategic direction, which calls for more latitude to independently manage A-brand purchases and collaborate directly with suppliers.”
Everest was established in 2020 and included Edeka, Netherlands-based retailer Picnic, and France’s Système U.
Meanwhile, Epic Partners formed a year later, comprising retailers such as Italy’s Esselunga and Switzerland’s Migros.
Jumbo aims to reorganize its approach to buying A-brands, and will discuss specifics with stakeholders, including suppliers.
In June, Jumbo terminated its contract with bread supplier Bake Five to reduce purchasing costs.
This decision, effective in 2026, concluded a relationship lasting over 20 years and jeopardized 700 jobs at Bake Five.
Jumbo’s new supplier, Bakkerij Goedhart, is associated with the largest industrial bakery in the Netherlands.
